Legal traffic orders have come into effect in two areas of Dudley borough, as part of a pilot scheme to reduce congestion and improve road safety around schools.

Dudley Council is working with partners to pilot the orders as part of the School Streets scheme, with roads near to Peter’s Hill Primary, Amblecote, and Brook Primary, Brierley Hill, affected.

The council successful applied for £72,000 of funding from The West Midlands Combined Authority to make the pilot possible.

The experimental traffic regulation order will be monitored for up to 18 months before deciding if it is to become permanent.

Most motorists are now prohibited from driving on the selected roads from 8am to 9.15am and 2.30pm to 3.45pm. Enforcement action is being led by West Midlands Police, with anyone found to be contravening the order possibly facing a fixed penalty notice. There are exemptions in place for residents and vehicles which require continuous access.

Balvinder Heran, deputy chief executive at Dudley Council, said: “Dudley Council wants to find the best ways to improve road safety for school runs and we are dedicated to supporting more children to use active travel for their ongoing health and wellbeing.

“We are pleased to be piloting this innovative scheme, which could also help to reduce pollution in the areas, and I would like to thank both schools for their ongoing support with this experimental traffic scheme.”

There has been extensive engagement and consultation in the local communities. The legal order has been advertised widely and appropriate signage installed to inform motorists. Support from other stakeholders such as Public Health, Parking Enforcement, Road Safety and Transport for West Midlands is also helping to educate drivers on the new restrictions.

Parents and carers of pupils attending the two schools will be kept informed of any developments through their school.

PIC-DUDLEY BOROUGH COUNCIL